Working Title Co-Chairs on the Opportunities in Low-Budget Films

Sub-$15m Budget Features: A New Frontier

Working Title co-chairs Tim Bevan and Eric Fellner believe there is a real opportunity in the sub-$15m budget feature film space, but with a crucial caveat – films need to cost less money and be bolder in that space.

Manchester Shoots: A New Era in Filmmaking

The company has shot a romantic comedy, CC: Emily, in Manchester this summer, and Bevan believes the city offers a more film-friendly environment, making it easier to produce a movie on a budget.

A New Business Model for Low-Budget Films

Bevan and Fellner cited Coralie Fargeat’s The Substance, a Working Title production currently performing well in UK-Ireland cinemas through Mubi, as an example of the kind of bold filmmaking that can succeed in the sub-$15m budget space. “If it’s really out there, people are interested. They don’t get turned off,” said Fellner.

Industry Needs Innovation and Creativity

Bevan emphasized the need for innovative new filmmakers and creative ideas, stating, “If we didn’t keep on regenerating with new ideas and people, we would die.”

London-Based Studio’s Thriving Film Industry

Beyond London, the UK is the best place in the world to make movies, according to Fellner. The country has undergone a radical change since the duo first started, with a thriving community of filmmakers and craftspeople now present.

The Future of Film Distribution

In terms of their long-term partnership with Universal Pictures, Bevan and Fellner reported that the agreement has changed marginally, but trust remains a crucial element in the relationship. They emphasized the importance of having a worldwide distribution network, which is “unbelievably powerful.”

Conclusion

Working Title’s co-chairs believe that the future of film lies in embracing low-budget productions, innovative new filmmakers, and a willingness to take risks. With their long-term partnership with Universal and a new era of filmmaking in Manchester, the company is poised for success in the years to come.

FAQs

* What is the deal between Working Title and Universal Pictures?
The two companies have a 25-year first-look partnership, which allows them to produce any film with a budget up to $35m.
* Where does Working Title shoot its films?
While London can be a challenging location for film production, Manchester is a more film-friendly option, offering a more cost-effective and accessible environment.
* What is the key to success in low-budget filmmaking?
According to Bevan and Fellner, films need to cost less money and be bolder in that space, embracing innovation and creativity to attract audiences.